• The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a set of high-quality academic standards in mathematics and English language arts/literacy (ELA)/literacy in history/social studies, science, and technical subjects. They are designed to ensure that all students graduate from high school with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college, career, and life.
• Students with disabilities can learn the CCSS, but they may need additional supports and services in order to do so. These supports and services can be provided through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• The IEP is a legal document that outlines the student’s educational goals, the specific supports and services they will receive, and how their progress will be measured. The IEP is developed by a team of professionals, including the student’s parents, teachers, and other service providers.
• When writing IEP goals for students with disabilities, it is important to keep the following in mind:
  • The goals should be aligned with the CCSS.
  • The goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
  • The goals should address the student’s individual needs.
  • The goals should be realistic and achievable.
  • The goals should be based on data.
  • The goals should be reviewed and updated regularly.

I have found that the following tips can help to successfully implement the practice of writing IEP goals for students with disabilities:

• Start by gathering data on the student’s current level of performance. This data can be collected through formal assessments, informal observations, and parent input.
• Use the data to identify the student’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you to determine which CCSS standards are most appropriate for the student.
• Write goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This will help to ensure that the goals are clear and measurable, and that they can be realistically achieved within a specific timeframe.
• Involve the student in the goal-setting process. This will help to ensure that the goals are meaningful to the student and that they are committed to achieving them.
• Review and update the goals regularly. This is important to ensure that the goals are still relevant and achievable as the student progresses.

I believe that writing IEP goals for students with disabilities is an important and essential practice. By following the tips above, we can ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in school and beyond.

Here are some additional thoughts, concerns, and experiences I have had regarding writing IEP goals for students with disabilities:

• Thoughts: I believe that it is important to write IEP goals that are ambitious but realistic. Students with disabilities can achieve great things, but they need to be given the right supports and challenges.
• Concerns: I am concerned that some schools may not have the resources or expertise to write IEP goals that are effective. I am also concerned that some schools may not be willing to provide the necessary supports and services to students with disabilities.
• Experiences: I have had the experience of working with schools that have been very successful in writing IEP goals for students with disabilities. These schools have a strong commitment to providing all students with a high-quality education, and they have the resources and expertise to make it happen.